The Future is Yet To Come...

Presented by The Goldfire Group

Rail-and-Streetcar

Alberta Passenger Rail & Streetcar Heritage Plan – VIA Rail, 118th Avenue, and the Edmonton Coliseum

A bold new vision is emerging for Alberta’s tourism and transportation future—one that blends modern passenger rail expansion with a revival of Edmonton’s iconic streetcar system.

The Alberta Passenger Rail Plan, championed by Bill Given, Chief Administrative Officer of the Municipality of Jasper, proposes expanding VIA Rail service from Edmonton to Jasper to boost tourism and strengthen regional connectivity. Currently, VIA Rail’s “The Canadian” runs twice a week, taking approximately 6.5 hours and passing through Evansburg, Edson, and Hinton at a cost of $166. While the route is scenic, the limited frequency restricts its potential for both residents and visitors.

Under the proposal, service frequency and passenger capacity would increase, with additional return stops in Wabamun, Stony Plain, and Spruce Grove. The plan also calls for relocating operations of The Canadian and other passenger services to the Edmonton Coliseum Tourism Centre, utilizing two dedicated stations at the site. The Coliseum holds deep historical significance, including ties to Edmonton’s early streetcar network.

Streetcar Heritage Plan Proposal

A highlight of the proposal is an opportunity for passengers to travel over the High Level Bridge and connect with a revived heritage streetcar line along 118th Avenue into the historic Highlands community. The route would feature a restored trolley turn-around, guided historical tours of Highlands, and integration with Edmonton’s existing tourism strategy.

This streetcar revival is more than just a nostalgic throwback—it’s part of a larger effort to preserve Edmonton’s streetcar heritage while enhancing modern transportation. Supporters envision the project revitalizing iconic buildings such as the Old Royal Alberta Museum (Old RAM) and the Edmonton Coliseum, transforming them into hubs for heritage tourism, cultural programming, and community engagement.

Linking the revived streetcar system to the Coliseum Tourism Centre would create a true transportation gateway—seamlessly connecting VIA Rail, the LRT, ETS bus routes, and regional bus tours. Visitors could arrive from across Canada, step off the train, and experience both Edmonton’s history and its vibrant neighborhoods, including Old Strathcona, via scenic streetcar rides over the High Level Bridge.

Advocates stress that preserving and enhancing historic infrastructure is not just about honoring the past—it’s about building a vibrant, connected, and culturally rich future for Edmonton and the province. The combination of expanded passenger rail, streetcar heritage experiences, and modern transit integration could make Alberta’s rail system a major draw for domestic and international travelers alike—boosting tourism, supporting local economies, and keeping a proud legacy alive.

Community members and history enthusiasts are encouraged to get involved and show their support for this unique blend of heritage preservation and forward-looking transit development.